Repairs to uPVC Windows
uPVC is a great choice for modern homes. They are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. They do not decay or rust as aluminum or timber.
It is important to clean and oil UPVC windows and doors on a regular basis. This will reduce unnecessary repair costs and also increase energy efficiency.
1. Broken Glass
If the glass in your window is damaged, it can cause a great amount of damage to your home, which can make it very hazardous and possibly fatal. It is essential to make sure that your windows are in good working order.
For single pane windows it can be relatively simple to replace them, and the new window will usually fit inside the frame that was previously installed easily. If you have double-paned windows that are joined by internal beading, it is harder to remove and replace the panes that were previously in use. In this situation it is essential to purchase plastic spacers in order to aid in fitting the new pane into the window frame.
If you are going to try to remove the glass panes yourself it is important to wear appropriate safety gear such as gloves that are thick and protective eyewear. It is also an excellent idea to lay down a drop cloth prior to when you start working on the glass, so that any shards fall on the fabric instead of landing on the floor where they can be trampled upon and cause further damage.
It’s a great idea seal the gap after the glass has been removed. This will keep water and drafts from entering your home until a professional is able to repair the window. This will also provide a barrier to prevent any intruders from getting into your home. If the gap is large, you might want to consider using an alarm door that comes with an integrated window repair near me, since this will offer the best of both worlds.
2. Sagging
uPVC is durable, energy-efficient and affordable alternative to timber sash window. Over time, they can develop a number of problems, including sliding. A window that is sagging can cause problems with light, draughts, and even security. If you find that your uPVC window is beginning to lose its shape, it’s crucial to act fast to stop the issue from becoming worse.
To repair a Window Repair that is sagging, you can try repositioning the hinges. You’ll first need to open the windows to get at the frame. With an screwdriver, unscrew the hinges at the top and bottom and adjust them by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise. After you’ve repositioned the hinges, shut your window and test it for fitting. If you are happy with the fit of the window, tighten the screws to hold them in place.
If you cannot reposition the hinges, you may have to replace the seal. Over time rubber seals can lose their elasticity and dry out which causes them to loosen. It is important to replace your seal as soon as you can to keep your uPVC window watertight and draughtproof.
uPVC handles could also loosen. This is usually due to screws that have loosened over time, but it can also be caused by the handle mechanism getting worn out. It’s relatively easy to fix a loose uPVC hand. The first step is to close the window and then perform an initial test to ensure that it fits. The joints at the corners of the sash should align with the joint on the casing. If it doesn’t then you can use a screwdriver to loosen the handle, and then return the mechanism to its original its original position.
3. Water Leaks
It is essential to act if you get up each morning to discover mouldy walls and floors that are wet. Windows that leak water do can not only cause degrading of the structure of your home but also hamper your efforts to control the temperature within your home. Most often, uPVC window leaks are caused by damaged or missing sealant.
This is a simple fix that can be done by any DIYer who has the ability. Depending on the severity of the issue is, the old caulking might need to be removed. It is essential to keep in mind that when it is about uPVC window repairs, you should avoid the temptation to “over-caulk and then make the area harder to clean and could reduce your energy efficiency.
Verify that the drainage holes have no debris in them, and also that the sill pan has been properly angled to drain away from the window. In more serious cases you might need to consider replacing the window.
Other indicators of water leakage include sills that are rotten and the appearance of black spots of mold on the walls near the window. The fungus thrives in conditions of dampness and can spread quickly throughout the house.
It is also important to note that if the leakage originates from the glass of your double-glazed windows it may be more likely to be an issue with the glass seal rather than the frame or sagging. A uPVC specialist can fix this problem by replacing the glass seal. This will restore the full insulation of your windows.
4. Faulty Hinges
If your uPVC windows are brittle to open, or are loose and blow open in a breeze It could be hinges that are at the fault. Any competent DIYer can replace these in a matter of minutes.
Like all mechanical parts hinges are prone to be damaged over time. It is very easy to change the hinges on a window however it is easier if someone else helps hold the frame.
It is also important to ensure that the uPVC hinges are being opened and closed in the correct direction. You can check this by looking for the arrows on each hinge. This indicates the direction in which the window should be opened.
The problem can be caused by opening the window improperly or due to a poor installation at the factory. Sending us a picture via our website is often enough to resolve the problem. We are more than happy to give suggestions.
Regular lubrication of the hinges is essential. Applying a light engineering lubricant on the hinges is an ideal method to accomplish this. We suggest using the lubricant that doesn’t contain solvents, like 3-in-1 Multi-Purpose oil. Regular lubrication will make the window easier to open and close. It can also lower the chance of windows sticking and help prevent corrosion. It is recommended to do this at least once a year. WD40 and other solvent based oils are not recommended because they will damage parts of your uPVC window.
5. Draughts
Draughts in upvc windows can be caused by a few different factors. First, the hinges because of wear and tear, can become misaligned, this will cause gaps to develop where the sash joins the frame. If they are beyond repair, it may be required to realign them. Second, the interlock can be disaligned. This happens on the hinge’s side, and might require to be cleaned. In certain instances it is possible to replace them.
These seals are susceptible to wear and tear or get damaged over time, allowing air escape. This can be avoided by replacing them with high-quality weatherstripping. Replace the upvc windows with low-emissivity glass. This will help control indoor temperatures and decrease the risk of draughts.
Another, and most effective ways to cut down on drafts is to use an draught excluder. These are typically made of fabric filled with some kind of filler. They can be put on top of your windowsill. They can help stop cold air from entering and keep your home warm and cosy!
Your windows made of upvc will continue to provide excellent insulation and security for your home with regular maintenance and repairs. It is crucial to keep in mind that all windows will eventually get worn out and it could be more cost-effective to replace them than to repair them. If you are experiencing issues with your window made of upvc it is recommended to speak with a professional immediately.
